In Jamestown, few traditions are as beloved — or impactful — as R.M. Stoudt’s Running of the Pink (ROP). More than just a 5K/10K race, it’s a celebration of survivorship, a commitment to early detection and a powerful example of how one local business can drive real change in our community.
Since 2008, R.M. Stoudt has raised more than $400,000 through ROP. Every dollar stays in the community, supporting Jamestown Regional Medical Center’s No Excuses program and Central Valley Health District’s Women’s Way. These initiatives provide vital breast and cervical cancer screenings and education to women when they need it most.
The inaugural race in 2008 drew 25 participants and raised $1,665. By 2025, the 18th annual event shattered records — 736 participants and over $56,000 raised. Planning is already underway for the 2026 race, scheduled for Saturday, June 6.
Casey Stoudt, fourth-generation owner of R.M. Stoudt, launched the event after realizing that while national efforts like Susan G. Komen are valuable, the needs in Jamestown deserved attention.
“We wanted to do something that kept money in our community,” he says. “A lot of our runners are cancer survivors. It’s a way to honor them.”
ROP offers Jamestown’s only 10K race, with a 5K walk/run. Since 2020, a virtual option has let participants join from anywhere — as far away as Tennessee.
Jamie Walton, R.M. Stoudt’s event organizer, calls ROP “a staple of the community.” The dealership keeps the spirit alive year-round with pink license plates, “Pink Fridays” and fundraising events like their chili cookoff — all building momentum for race day.
ROP is powered by the entire community. Alpha Opportunities stuffs race bags. Prairie Paws brings therapy dogs. Jamestown High School’s cross-country team manages race bibs and timing. Cash Wise and Walmart donate water and snacks to keep racers energized. The Anne Carlsen Center adds heart — children line the race path to offer high-fives. And that’s only the beginning of the teamwork that makes this day possible.
That spirit of collaboration hasn’t gone unnoticed. In recognition of their leadership and commitment to local health, Ford Motor Company honored R.M. Stoudt with its national Hometown Hero award.
ROP is more than a race. It’s a reminder that when a community rallies together, lives are not only changed — they’re saved.
Since its start, No Excuses has helped hundreds of women receive the screenings they need — free of charge. You can help even more women access lifesaving care.